Matt Doust was a West Australian artist. Not only were his hyper-realistic portraits awe inspiring but the way he lived was truly inspirational, that of an artistic soul that poured passion into his life and art. He was the real deal. Doust was on his way to becoming legendary in talent and persona when he tragically passed away in 2013 from an epileptic fit.

29 Years & Eights Days is the second film by local film maker Matt deKoning to feature Doust following the recent Revelation Film Festival hit Meal Tickets, that chronicled the rise and fall of local Perth band, The Screwtop Detonators.

29 Years & Eights Days intimately documents his life through the camera of close friend deKoning. Shot over 16 years, the film includes excerpts from his visual diaries, artworks in progress, short films, completed pieces and poetry from his journals.

The film features interviews with key people in Matt’s life including fellow artists Jodee Knowles, Stormie Mills, Joe McKee (Snowman) and Will Ferrier (Will Stoker & The Embers) among others. The documentary also chronicles the key exhibitions of Matt’s career including his Archibald piece: The White Cocoon, a portrait of model Gemma Ward; Recollections & Obsessions; Unravelled and the final exhibition of works which were exhibited posthumously.

“I’m looking forward to making my next film about my friend, Matt Doust,” de Koning said. “Matt and I were always best friends. Matt had an undeniable talent which surfaced in around year 10. I started filming Matt in the same way I started filming Screwtop Detonators.

“Obviously Matt plays a big role in Meal Tickets but I want to tell Matt’s story. The talent that he had and the ambition he had was quite unique and I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone else who has had it like Matt had it. Tragically and sadly he is no longer with us but we’ve had chats and we will honour him and that’s what I plan to do.”

29 Years & Eight Days is directed by de Koning and produced by Brooke Silcox. The film is currently seeking support from the community, you can find more about the project and register your support here.